Our community of helpers

June 18, 2013

As the outcome that no one wanted has been realized and as Kathlynn is brought home in a manner that no one wanted, I find myself going back again and again to a quote attributed to Mr. Rogers, the man who used to have a television program for young children.

Mr. Rogers is quoted as saying:

"When I was a boy and I would see scary things in the news, my mother would say to me, 'Look for the helpers. You will always find people who are helping.' To this day, especially in times of 'disaster,' I remember my mother's words and I am always comforted by realizing that there are still so many helpers - so many caring people in this world."

As part of the chapter in this tragic event is coming to a close, I, too, am reminded of all of the helpers during this difficult ordeal: the community members and citizen volunteers of Dayton and so many surrounding communities, as well as the outpouring of law enforcement and first responder staff at the local, county and state levels, all sharing their hearts and volunteering their time, energy, and expertise in search of the outcome everyone wanted.

Someone once said that it is the connections we make with others which give us our sense of security and safety.

Although our sense of security has certainly been shattered by this terrible event, may it be that the connections we have with others are nurtured, supported, and expanded in this time of grief and sorrow so that we may all gain at least some reassurance from the many, many good people and helpers in this world.